Kitesurfing in Naxos: The Windy Heart of the Cyclades

With more than 200 windy days a year, Naxos is one of the most reliable kitesurfing islands in Greece. Powered by the Meltemi wind and shaped by centuries of myth and history, this is where adventure meets authenticity. Wide sandy beaches, flatwater lagoons, and mellow waves make it ideal for all levels, from first-time riders to freestyle addicts and foil fanatics.

Main spots like Mikri Vigla and Glyfada serve up steady side-onshore wind, stunning turquoise water, and plenty of space to ride. And when the wind drops? You’ve got mountain hikes, ancient ruins, food tours, and some of the best sunsets in the Cyclades waiting for you.

Location

Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades, famous for its strong and steady Meltemi winds, wide sandy beaches, and laid-back Greek island vibe. Main kite beaches include Mikri Vigla and Glyfada.

Wind Season

High: May – October (18–30+ knots) Peak: July & August Wind Probability: 85–95% in peak months

Conditions

Air Temperature: 26–34°C Water Temperature: 22–26°C (boardshorts or shorty) Wind Direction: Side-onshore (mostly N/NE), Meltemi-driven Waves: Flatwater, chop, and small wave sections — ideal mix for all riding styles

Skill Level

Great for all levels, from flatwater learners to advanced freestylers and wave chasers. Most beaches are spacious and beginner-safe, with rescue services and kite schools nearby.

Main Spots
  • Mikri Vigla: Flat-to-choppy water, steady wind, perfect for all levels
  • Glyfada: Big, uncrowded beach with mixed water conditions; from flat to small waves
  • Amitis: More exposed and wavey; best for experienced riders
  • Agios Prokopios / Agia Anna: Seasonal spots (spring and autumn) with choppy water; not for peak season
  • Pyrgaki: Quiet beach with chop and small waves; ideal for intermediate+ riders
Access & Vibe
  • Getting There – Direct ferries or flights from Athens, or combine with Santorini/Mykonos + boat.
  • Getting Around – Compact and easy to explore by car, scooter, or ATV.
  • Vibe – Charming villages, authentic food, and a slower pace than the busier islands.
Bonus Highlights

Sunset views from Portara, ancient ruins, vineyard visits, hiking Mount Zas, local food tours, and uncrowded golden beaches all around the island.

Wind and Weather in Naxos

The island’s signature Meltemi wind defines the kitesurfing season in Naxos, delivering rock-solid consistency from May to October. This northerly flow builds gently through the morning before turning full power by midday, blowing side-onshore at 18–30+ knots across the island’s southwest beaches. The wind is at its most reliable in July and August, when it rarely skips a day, creating perfect full-day riding conditions under bright Aegean skies.

Temperatures stay comfortably warm throughout the season — around 26–34 °C in the air and 22–26 °C in the water — so a shorty is optional and most riders go out in just boardshorts or a bikini. The climate stays dry and sunny, and the clean Meltemi airflow keeps the heat pleasant even during midsummer. In short, Naxos offers the perfect mix of steady wind, warm water, and endless daylight — ideal for long sessions and laid-back island living.

Location

Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades, famous for its strong and steady Meltemi winds, wide sandy beaches, and laid-back Greek island vibe. Main kite beaches include Mikri Vigla and Glyfada.

Wind Season

High: May – October (18–30+ knots) Peak: July & August Wind Probability: 85–95% in peak months

Conditions

Air Temperature: 26–34°C Water Temperature: 22–26°C (boardshorts or shorty) Wind Direction: Side-onshore (mostly N/NE), Meltemi-driven Waves: Flatwater, chop, and small wave sections — ideal mix for all riding styles

Skill Level

Great for all levels, from flatwater learners to advanced freestylers and wave chasers. Most beaches are spacious and beginner-safe, with rescue services and kite schools nearby.

Main Spots
  • Mikri Vigla: Flat-to-choppy water, steady wind, perfect for all levels
  • Glyfada: Big, uncrowded beach with mixed water conditions; from flat to small waves
  • Amitis: More exposed and wavey; best for experienced riders
  • Agios Prokopios / Agia Anna: Seasonal spots (spring and autumn) with choppy water; not for peak season
  • Pyrgaki: Quiet beach with chop and small waves; ideal for intermediate+ riders
Access & Vibe
  • Getting There – Direct ferries or flights from Athens, or combine with Santorini/Mykonos + boat.
  • Getting Around – Compact and easy to explore by car, scooter, or ATV.
  • Vibe – Charming villages, authentic food, and a slower pace than the busier islands.
Bonus Highlights

Sunset views from Portara, ancient ruins, vineyard visits, hiking Mount Zas, local food tours, and uncrowded golden beaches all around the island.

Where to Kite in Naxos

Naxos offers a variety of kitesurfing spots, each with its own character — from mellow lagoons to wavey coastlines. The main hub is Mikri Vigla (Orkos Beach), where steady side-onshore Meltemi wind, flat-to-choppy water, and designated school zones make it ideal for all levels. Just south, Glyfada Beach provides more space and smoother water — perfect for freestyle or laid-back freeride sessions. For a wilder experience, Amitis Beach on the north coast delivers stronger wind and small to medium waves, suited to advanced riders. In spring and autumn, Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna near town offer great off-season alternatives, while Pyrgaki, in the far south, is a quiet, scenic escape for intermediate kiters. Wherever you ride, Naxos offers space, steady wind, and a spot for every style.

Location

Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades, famous for its strong and steady Meltemi winds, wide sandy beaches, and laid-back Greek island vibe. Main kite beaches include Mikri Vigla and Glyfada.

Wind Season

High: May – October (18–30+ knots) Peak: July & August Wind Probability: 85–95% in peak months

Conditions

Air Temperature: 26–34°C Water Temperature: 22–26°C (boardshorts or shorty) Wind Direction: Side-onshore (mostly N/NE), Meltemi-driven Waves: Flatwater, chop, and small wave sections — ideal mix for all riding styles

Skill Level

Great for all levels, from flatwater learners to advanced freestylers and wave chasers. Most beaches are spacious and beginner-safe, with rescue services and kite schools nearby.

Main Spots
  • Mikri Vigla: Flat-to-choppy water, steady wind, perfect for all levels
  • Glyfada: Big, uncrowded beach with mixed water conditions; from flat to small waves
  • Amitis: More exposed and wavey; best for experienced riders
  • Agios Prokopios / Agia Anna: Seasonal spots (spring and autumn) with choppy water; not for peak season
  • Pyrgaki: Quiet beach with chop and small waves; ideal for intermediate+ riders
Access & Vibe
  • Getting There – Direct ferries or flights from Athens, or combine with Santorini/Mykonos + boat.
  • Getting Around – Compact and easy to explore by car, scooter, or ATV.
  • Vibe – Charming villages, authentic food, and a slower pace than the busier islands.
Bonus Highlights

Sunset views from Portara, ancient ruins, vineyard visits, hiking Mount Zas, local food tours, and uncrowded golden beaches all around the island.

Kite Adventures & Kite Cruises in Naxos

While Naxos itself isn’t home to long downwind safaris like in Brazil, it plays a starring role in our Greece Kite Cruise — a unique sailing adventure through the Cyclades Islands. Imagine waking up to a new kite spot every day, with steady Meltemi wind, turquoise bays, and golden beaches as your playground. Our catamaran-based kite trip includes Naxos, Paros, Mykonos, and smaller hidden gems, offering the ultimate way to experience kitesurfing in Greece.

From the flatwater lagoons of Naxos to the open-water sessions off Paros and Antiparos, the Kite Cruise blends exploration, comfort, and pure wind-driven freedom. Whether you’re chasing sunset sessions, island-hopping with friends, or simply living the sea-to-sky lifestyle, this is the perfect Greek kitesurfing adventure — one that captures the essence of summer in the Aegean.

Location

Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades, famous for its strong and steady Meltemi winds, wide sandy beaches, and laid-back Greek island vibe. Main kite beaches include Mikri Vigla and Glyfada.

Wind Season

High: May – October (18–30+ knots) Peak: July & August Wind Probability: 85–95% in peak months

Conditions

Air Temperature: 26–34°C Water Temperature: 22–26°C (boardshorts or shorty) Wind Direction: Side-onshore (mostly N/NE), Meltemi-driven Waves: Flatwater, chop, and small wave sections — ideal mix for all riding styles

Skill Level

Great for all levels, from flatwater learners to advanced freestylers and wave chasers. Most beaches are spacious and beginner-safe, with rescue services and kite schools nearby.

Main Spots
  • Mikri Vigla: Flat-to-choppy water, steady wind, perfect for all levels
  • Glyfada: Big, uncrowded beach with mixed water conditions; from flat to small waves
  • Amitis: More exposed and wavey; best for experienced riders
  • Agios Prokopios / Agia Anna: Seasonal spots (spring and autumn) with choppy water; not for peak season
  • Pyrgaki: Quiet beach with chop and small waves; ideal for intermediate+ riders
Access & Vibe
  • Getting There – Direct ferries or flights from Athens, or combine with Santorini/Mykonos + boat.
  • Getting Around – Compact and easy to explore by car, scooter, or ATV.
  • Vibe – Charming villages, authentic food, and a slower pace than the busier islands.
Bonus Highlights

Sunset views from Portara, ancient ruins, vineyard visits, hiking Mount Zas, local food tours, and uncrowded golden beaches all around the island.

Spotguide

Where to Kitesurf in Naxos

Mikri Vigla (Orkos Beach)

Naxos’ most popular kitesurfing beach and the main hub for schools and rentals.
This wide sandy bay gets steady side-onshore Meltemi wind and features mostly flat to choppy water with small waves. It’s beginner-friendly with designated teaching zones and a great spot for freestyle and freeride. Gets crowded in July and August, so mornings or late afternoons are best.

  • Wind: Side-onshore (N–NW)
  • Water: Flat to choppy, small waves
  • Skill level: All levels

Vibe: Energetic, school-supported, social

Glyfada Beach

Spacious and quiet — perfect for cruisy sessions and freestyle practice.

Located just south of Mikri Vigla, this long, sandy beach offers clean side-shore wind and flat to small chop conditions. It’s rarely crowded and has ample space for solo or relaxed riding. Ideal for beginners progressing and freestylers wanting more room.

  • Wind: Side-shore (N)
  • Water: Flat to small chop
  • Skill level: Beginner to intermediate

Vibe: Peaceful, open, great for progression

Amitis Beach

Raw and wavey — Naxos’ wild side.
Found on the north coast near Eggares, Amitis is exposed to stronger winds and open sea swell. The beach is part rocky, with a mix of chop and medium waves. Only recommended for experienced riders due to tricky access and conditions.

  • Wind: Onshore (N), gusty
  • Water: Chop and waves
  • Skill level: Advanced

Vibe: Remote, unspoiled, wild

Agios Prokopios & Agia Anna

Off-season gems near town.
These iconic west coast beaches are crowded with swimmers in summer, but become good kiting spots in spring and autumn with SW wind. The conditions include flat water to wind chop and small waves. Schools don’t typically operate here, so ride only if you’re self-sufficient.

  • Wind: Onshore or side-on (SW/S)
  • Water: Small chop and waves
  • Skill level: Intermediate+

Vibe: Scenic, seasonal, close to town

Pyrgaki

For the adventurous rider who wants space and scenery.
Located far south, this beach offers beautiful open water with light to medium waves when SW or W winds blow. Protected by the NATURA 2000 program, it’s a quieter, more remote option for intermediate and advanced kiters.

  • Wind: Cross-on (SW/W)
  • Water: Chop and small waves
  • Skill level: Intermediate to advanced
  • Vibe: Natural, quiet, off the beaten path

Ride the Meltemi

Endless Wind, Space & Greek Island Charm

Naxos is the windiest island in Greece, offering more than 200 windy days a year and plenty of room to ride. Wide sandy beaches, flatwater lagoons, and mellow waves make it ideal for every style — from first-timers learning at Mikri Vigla, to freestylers cruising Glyfada, to advanced riders tackling the wilder surf at Amitis. With reliable Meltemi wind, beginner-safe beaches, and a laid-back island vibe, Naxos is one of the most versatile kitesurfing destinations in the Cyclades.

Style
Rating

Beginners

star star star star star

Intermediate

star star star star star

Freeride

star star star star

Freestyle

star star star star star

Wave Riding

star star star star
When the Wind Takes a Break

What to Do in Naxos Beyond Kitesurfing

No wind? No problem. Naxos is an island made for explorers.

Hike Mount Zas

Climb the mythical birthplace of Zeus for panoramic views of the Aegean. At 1,004 meters, it’s the highest point in the Cyclades.

Beach Hop in Seclusion

From hidden coves like Alyko to wide sandy bays like Pyrgaki, you’ll find dozens of wild, uncrowded beaches to swim, snorkel, and unwind.

Taste the Island

Tour family-run farms and vineyards. Try Naxos’ famous potatoes, cheeses, and wines — or take a cooking class in a mountain village.

Explore Ancient Sites

Visit the iconic Portara (Temple of Apollo) at sunset, or wander the marble-paved alleys of Chora’s Old Town and Venetian castle.

Unplug and Recharge

Drop into a beachfront yoga class, paddle along the coast on a SUP, or soak in the relaxed island rhythm with a glass of local ouzo in hand.

Sail & Ride

Kite Cruises in Greece that stop in Naxos

Naxos is the highlight of any kite cruise through the Cyclades. With over 200 windy days a year, wide sandy beaches, and flatwater lagoons, it’s the most reliable kitesurfing island in Greece. From the deck of our catamaran, you’ll launch straight into the Meltemi, ride spots like Mikri Vigla and Glyfada, and unwind with golden sunsets and quiet island charm. For the ultimate mix of steady wind, Greek soul, and island-hopping adventure, our Greece Kite Cruise is the best way to experience Naxos and beyond.

Slider Image

Brazil

Downwind Kite Safari Combo

Experience the ultimate mix of Brazil’s top kitesurf spots in one journey. This customizable route takes you across states, lagoons, waves, and untouched beaches — the perfect downwind adventure for riders who want it all.

Read More
Slider Image

Brazil

Downwind Kite Safari Waveriding Coaching

Take your wave riding to the next level with pro coaching along Brazil’s best downwind surf breaks. Carve, learn, and progress while riding stunning coastlines designed for kite-powered wave addicts.

Read More
Slider Image

Brazil

Wild North Downwind Route

Embark on Brazil’s wildest kite safari through remote dunes, freshwater lagoons, and the legendary Lençóis Maranhenses. This is a once-in-a-lifetime journey across three states and some of the most untouched landscapes on Earth.

Read More
Do you have a question?

FAQs

The prime wind season runs from May to September, with the most consistent Meltemi wind in July and August.

Yes! Mikri Vigla and Glyfada are beginner-friendly with shallow water and side-onshore wind. Most schools offer IKO-certified lessons and rescue services.

Most riders use 7–10m kites in summer. The Meltemi wind is steady but can get strong, so a small kite is essential.

Yes — Naxos has several top-rated kite schools like Flisvos, Thalasea, Naxos Kitelife, and Naxos Kitesurf Club. You’ll find rentals, lessons, and storage at most major spots.

Fly directly to Naxos Airport (JNX) or take a ferry from Athens, Mykonos, or Santorini. Most ferries allow large baggage, but check airline policies if flying with gear.

For easy beach access, stay near Mikri Vigla, Plaka, or Glyfada. You'll find everything from budget-friendly studios to luxury beachfront hotels.

Explore mountain villages, hike Mount Zas, try local food and wine, or relax at uncrowded beaches. Naxos offers plenty beyond the kite.
This site is registered on wpml.org as a development site. Switch to a production site key to remove this banner.